Stick fight in Kalaripayattu

In Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art of Kerala, fight using long sticks known as Kettukari is an important item.

This long, smooth cane is the first weapon to be resorted to in Kalarippayattu. The stick has to be held with both the hands.

Pantheeran, Sareera Vadi etc. are some other canes with difference in length. There are twelve adavus (tactics) in the fight using canes.

The video is taken from CVN Kalari, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

Kalaripayattu is regarded as the most ancient martial art form in the world. Kalaripayattu training focuses on the co-ordination of mind and body.

There is also a scientific medicine system called Kalarichikilsa associated with this martial art. Kalarichikilsa, the herbal medicine system is highly effective for bruises and sprains.

There are two styles of Kalaripayattu; the North Kerala and South Kerala styles.

In the medieval period Kalaripayattu was a way of life in the state. The Aasan or Guru (teacher) of Kalaripayattu had much social respectability.